Rev. Bobby Lee McKinney, “Preacher Bob” age 91, formerly of the Cane Creek Community of Bakersville, stepped into glory on December 25, 2023. Born January 18, 1932 in Mitchell County, he was the son of the late Alf and Pauline Johnson McKinney and the loving husband of the late Lena Gail Edwards McKinney. Other than his parents, he also was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Margaret Ellen McKinney.
Bobby was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and always greeted everyone with a big smile.
He was a minister of Baptist faith, pastoring churches in Buncombe, McDowell, and Mitchell counties. He served God in this capacity for almost 50 years. He loved God first and foremost, then his family with the love of his life being his wife of 71 years. He had a deep faith and spent his last days overwhelmed by the love and grace he experienced in Jesus Christ. His legacy will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bobby loved fishing, photography, tinkering in his workshop, and riding his motorcycle until the age of 85.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Karen Rhymer and husband Duane of Boone, NC. Kim Brooks and husband Terry of Rossville, GA. Granddaughters Michelle Holcombe, Angie Scoggins and husband Brian, Tina Warden and husband Greg, and April Church and husband Travis. Also, twelve great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers, Donald McKinney, Clayton McKinney, and Ronald McKinney and wife Loris, and one sister, Naomi Frisbee and husband Bob. All of Marion, NC.
Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at Altapass Baptist Church in Spruce Pine, NC, with Dr. Marcus Benfield officiating. The family will receive friends and loved ones from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm prior to the service. Burial will follow the service in the McKinney Cove Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living in Boone, NC. Thank you for your love and care of our Daddy. He loved you. Also, thank you to the angels of Medi Home Health and Hospice of Boone for your compassion and care given to him and to our family. You are truly performing God’s work.
